While yesterday was a whirlwind of sessions, today was much more simple. Although I attended only two sessions, the content was fierce and had made me deeply contemplative all day.
Fair warning: I’m working out my thoughts on some of these topics as I write, so you can experience things from my point-of-view. For some of us, these topics are familiar and require no thought. For others, we’re stuck on acronyms and concepts that are brand new to us.
Town Hall with UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres
Key Takeaways:
Here’s what you need to know from the speech, especially if you’re a feminist or advocate for gender equality:
Civil society is leading the charge on gender equality. The Secretary-General called us “drivers of progress” and reaffirmed his solidarity with activists.
“Red Alert”! While marking milestones like the Beijing Declaration’s 30th anniversary, he warned of rising misogyny and backlash against gender equality and women’s rights globally.
The Pact for the Future reaffirms global commitment. What is the Pact for the Future? The Pact for the Future is a global agreement adopted at the 2024 UN Summit of the Future, designed as a blueprint for sustainable development and equality. It commits nations to:
- Eradicate violence against women and girls.
- Ensure universal access to sexual and reproductive health rights.
- Achieve gender parity in leadership at all levels.
- Address economic barriers by increasing investments in care work and equal access to resources.
This Pact represents an opportunity to hold governments accountable for concrete actions—not just promises—toward a gender-equal world.
Urgency. Violence against women... Shrinking civic spaces... Threats to activists while calling for action to protect women in conflict zones like Afghanistan... The time for action is NOW.
Call to Action: Do not trade equality for political convenience ! All of us must challenge power imbalances together.
Vision of a future where all women and girls have full human rights is a vision we need to spread.
My Question:
How do I translate these ideas into practical, local goals? How can I inspire others to take up this cause? Who would be a powerful player?
Uniting across borders: global allyship in the face of resistance and polarisation
In a powerful fireside chat that brought together voices from the Diversity Council Australia and the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion (both part of the Global Inclusion and Diversity Alliance), I discovered that allyship is far more than a performative label – it's a deeply personal, ongoing relationship of mutual understanding and collective action. Each of my key takeaways deserve their own section, so here we go!
Privilege and Power
From the very beginning, the conversation challenged traditional notions of privilege:
"Privilege and power are not dirty things, they're opportunities. The more privilege you have, the more opportunity you have to affect change." ~ Marni Panas
This isn't about feeling guilty, but about recognizing the potential to create meaningful impact through the power that you have.
Intersectionality: The Heart of True Inclusion
Sheetal Deo crystallized the essence of meaningful allyship with a my favorite quote of the day:
"If it's not intersectional, it's not inclusive, and if it's not inclusive, it's not equitable. Full stop."
They highlighted the critical importance of solidarity across marginalized communities, breaking down the colonial tactics of divide and conquer.
The 6 Ds of Being an Upstander
I thought this framework for allies witnessing oppression was incredibly practical:
1. Distract: Redirect attention or conversation
2. Demonstrate Support: Show solidarity through physical presence
3. Delegate: Involve appropriate authorities or leaders
4. Direct: Speak up directly against the oppressive behavior
5. Dialogue: Have a private conversation to address the issue
6. Deliver Resources: Provide support to those affected
Simple Acts of Allyship Matter Most
The speakers shared very personal stories of transformation through small acts of kindness – a hello, a seat next to someone, a moment of genuine connection. Marni recounted a story of a woman who reached out to her behind a petrol pump, simply saying, "I saw what happened. I think you're beautiful." This moment of unexpected support had stayed with her for years, demonstrating how a single moment of genuine connection can transform someone's entire perspective.
The Invisible Work of Allies
What became increasingly clear was the often-unseen nature of true allyship. It's not about grand gestures or public declarations, but about consistent, quiet support.
Breaking the Cycle of Oppression
The speakers delved deep into the systemic nature of marginalization. Sheetal emphasized that we didn't create these oppressive systems, but we have a responsibility to stop perpetuating them. "We can't just do it when it's easy," she noted, challenging the performative allyship that often emerges during convenient moments.
Confronting Uncomfortable Truths
The conversation didn't shy away from the uncomfortable realities of marginalization. The speakers discussed horizontal violence within communities, the challenges of internalized oppression, and the ways marginalized groups are often weaponized against each other
"The root of transphobia and homophobia is sexism and misogyny." ~ Marni Panas
A Holistic Approach to Liberation
The discussion transcended individual identity markers, emphasizing a holistic approach to liberation. Sheetal articulated this beautifully: "Our liberation is tied to one another." This means understanding that no one is truly free until all are free – a radical concept of interconnectedness.
Mental Health and Allyship
An important subtext of the conversation was the emotional toll of being both marginalized and an ally. The speakers all acknowledged the exhaustion, the constant need to educate, and the importance of self-care. They stressed that allies must also care for themselves to sustain their commitment to change.
Looking Forward: A Vision of Hope
Despite the challenges discussed, the overwhelming tone was one of HOPE. The speakers presented allyship not as a burden, but as an opportunity for collective growth and transformation. They painted a picture of a world where differences are not just tolerated, but celebrated.
Personal Transformation as Political Action
The most radical message was clear: personal transformation is political action. By changing ourselves, by being willing to listen, learn, and grow, we contribute to broader social change.
At this point, I asked a question that I think many of the hundreds of US attendees were wondering. It was such a helpful, beautiful response from the speakers that I will be giving it its own post with the full text. Watch for it soon!
A Call to Continued Learning
I invite you to begin your own journey of allyship, to sit with discomfort, to listen deeply, and to take action in ways both small and significant.
As I reflect on this powerful conversation, I'm reminded that allyship is not a destination, but a continuous journey. It requires humility, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to human dignity.
I’ll leave you with this:
"We don't want a seat at the table. We want to flip the table and create a space where everyone can be heard." ~ Sheetal Deo
See you tomorrow, friends.
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